2.3.B—Describe the fluid mosaic model of cell membranes

Describe the fluid mosaic model of cell membranes.

• Plasma membranes consist of a structural framework of phospholipid molecules embedded with proteins, steroids (such as cholesterol in vertebrate animals), glycoproteins, and glycolipids. All of these can move around the surface of the cell within the membrane, as illustrated by the fluid mosaic model.